We just got an email from the guys over at Sony Ericsson to let us know that Minecraft Pocket Edition is now available for the Xperia Play, and the game will be exclusive to the Xperia Play for now, but will be released later on for other Android devices.
Indie developer Mojang has set the industry alight with Minecraft, as the most downloaded paid-for independent PC game of all time. Winning critics and fans over with its clever and addictive gameplay, the title boasts more than 11 million registered users and more than 50,000 new players joining every day. Minecraft is one of the fastest growing game franchises in history, boasting such popularity while still only offered in Beta with constant updates and feature additions.
Exclusive Launch on Xperia Play
Minecraft Pocket Edition will be available from today, exclusively for the Xperia Play for £4.26, and you can find out more information over at the Android Market. This exclusive launch on the Xperia Play is a strategic move by Sony Ericsson to attract more gamers to their platform. The Xperia Play, often referred to as the “PlayStation Phone,” is designed specifically for gaming, featuring a slide-out gamepad that mimics the layout of a PlayStation controller. This makes it an ideal device for a game like Minecraft, which benefits from tactile controls.
Future Availability and Game Features
While the game is currently exclusive to the Xperia Play, it will eventually be available on other Android devices. This staggered release strategy allows Mojang to optimize the game for different hardware configurations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all players. The Pocket Edition of Minecraft includes many of the features that have made the PC version so popular, such as the ability to build and explore vast worlds, gather resources, and craft items. However, it has been tailored for mobile play, with touch controls and a simplified interface.
The game also supports multiplayer mode, allowing players to connect with friends and build together. This social aspect of Minecraft has always been one of its strongest features, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among players. The mobile version aims to capture this same spirit, making it easy for players to join each other’s worlds and work on projects together.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The release of Minecraft Pocket Edition on the Xperia Play is a significant milestone in the gaming industry. It demonstrates the growing importance of mobile gaming and the potential for mobile devices to deliver high-quality gaming experiences. As smartphones and tablets become more powerful, we can expect to see more console-quality games making their way to mobile platforms.
Moreover, the success of Minecraft as an indie game highlights the changing landscape of the gaming industry. Independent developers now have the tools and platforms to reach a global audience, challenging the dominance of big-budget, AAA titles. Minecraft’s success story is an inspiration to aspiring game developers, showing that creativity and innovation can lead to commercial success.
The launch of Minecraft Pocket Edition on the Xperia Play is an exciting development for both fans of the game and the mobile gaming industry as a whole. With its addictive gameplay, social features, and the promise of future updates, the Pocket Edition is set to become a must-have for Minecraft enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for its release on other Android devices, and get ready to build, explore, and create on the go.
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